cOmmUnIcATioN SkiLl: SpEaKINg To AuDiEnCe

Speaking to audience can be exciting. Lack of preparation can make the best presentation a complete disaster. The presenter have to structure his presentation once he has decided on the presentation's objective and overall goal.

They should start this process by determining the length of the presentation. Besides that, the whole presentation should be broken into smaller segments, with each segment explaining a specific task (which will reflect the overall objective). For example, the first segment should be explaining the introduction of the presentation. In this particular segment, the person should include an overview of the presentation or a short summary of the person's speech, mainly explaining the topic (why and what). Each presentation should be kept short and simple. This is because the audience will not remember every point of the presentation. Therefore, highlight the most important parts of the presentation. The risk of boredom is higher when the presentation is long. To ensure the effectiveness of the presentation, the person who presents the presentation should emphasize what he is going to tell the audience (For instance, “In this presentation I will show you....”). Furthermore, tell them the key points by expanding and illustrating each one clearly. At the end of presentation include a short summary of what been told. Next, include the use of visual aids such as slide projectors, data projectors, video machines and computers. Ensure the data is not crammed onto any single visual. Keep each visual limited to six lines or less. Graphics used should be large enough so that the audience can see it clearly. When using various visuals, do not turn your back to the audience. Position yourself so you can use the visuals while facing the audience during presentation.